Immersion among the black Lolo - Cao Bang

Khuoi Khon, in Cao Bang province, is a high-altitude hamlet, “decorated” by rice terraces. It offers the possibility of delving into the daily life of the black Lolo, an ethnic group well known to English-speaking viewers, thanks to the program “Rendez-vous en terre stranger” broadcast on France 2 or TV5 Monde.

Who are the black Lolo?

The black Lolo, also called “O Man”, “Man”, “La”, “Man Yi” or “Mun Di”, originate from China, whose border borders Cao Bang. They live mainly in this province and that of Ha Giang, located on the northern tip of Vietnam. Their houses are entirely on stilts, or partly when the rest of their spaces overlook the land. They mainly cultivate rice and corn, and also do livestock. They have their own language and customs distinguishing them from the “varied Lolo”, and practice the patriarchal regime and the cult of ancestors.

Why this activity?

To get to know a country well, especially its population, nothing is better than spending nights with locals, in order to be in direct contact with local families. Being hosted in the village of Khuoi Khon allows you to interact with them in a fruitful way, particularly by sharing their dinner. These hosts will offer you activities that will make your stay truly unforgettable.

How's it going?

Once settled in with the local, you will be warmly welcomed by their family and will get to know each other while sharing a cup of green tea, for example. Time to rest, you will participate in daily activities depending on arrival time and the season, or can simply play with the children.

At the end of the day, if you wish, you will participate in the preparation of dinner in order to learn the recipe for typical local dishes. The meal will take place in a friendly atmosphere, around what you have concocted with your hosts, and will remain engraved in your memory. This is an ideal opportunity to discover the culture and daily life of black Lolo people. Your English-speaking guide will always be at your side, too, to facilitate communication and enlighten you.

For the night, you will have a private space or bedroom in the house. Your hosts will provide the service by providing you with a mattress, blanket, bath towel, and a fan if necessary. But it is advisable to bring basic hygiene products with you (shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).

Other recommended activities

Travelers with more time - and wishing to relive the moments of "Rendezvous in an unknown land" - can immerse themselves more in the life of the black Lolo. By spending at least one extra day with their guests, they have the opportunity to help them prepare and serve food for the animals, for example. Depending on the season, they can also help out in the fields, between plowing, transplanting rice, harvesting corn or collecting wood. These works constitute formidable human and cultural experiences.

If you stay longer in Khuoi Khon, you can also walk around the village, cycle or visit another isolated hamlet populated by White Hmong. This is a great opportunity to compare the lifestyle of two different ethnic groups.

For who?

This experience is perfect for all travelers who pass through the Cao Bang region and want to delve into the original culture of the Black Lolo. Those who wish to favor more comfortable accommodation are less likely to be interested.